Feel Good Resources

Do me a favor...Do something that makes you feel good. Give something of yourself that helps others. I tell you, it is the GREATEST feeling.

I'm just in from the "5 or 50" Women’s Sustainable Weight Loss & Lifestyle Group that I founded and facilitate once a month. The group started out with about 20 and has seen numbers fluctuate. But, what hasn't changed is the feeling I get from our time together. Each month I chose a different health/wellness topic and a guest presenter. We've had a few women share their weight loss stories, a Certified Wellness Coach, a Nautropath, and a personal trainer to name a few.

Since our meetings are held at the library, I thought it would be nice to actually tap into the bounty of resources that the library has to offer. So, tonight our guest presenter was the branch librarian Teresa Torres. She showed us how to use the library database to search for vetted health/wellness information, gave us a tour of the health/wellness book section and the cookbook section (my cookbook so happened to be checked in).

The ladies were genuinely excited about the information we gathered. Some left with books and magazines, Kay left with a library card, Teresa was all smiles for being able to share and help, and I left feeling all warm and fuzzy. Thanks Teresa and to all the wonderful ladies who came out tonight.

I love what I do!

One Year: Outside of the Box

Clark College has been good to me! One year ago today, August 27th, my cookbook, "Shop, Cook, Eat: Outside of the Box" hit the shelves at Clark College Bookstore as a required text in the curriculum for students enrolled in "Health 100: Food and Your Health" and as a recommended text for students in "Health 104: Weight and Your Health." Woot woot!

On the shelves Fall '12

It's been my great pleasure and honor to visit the campus on a number of occasions as guest lecturer to show the students just how simple it is to whip up recipes from the cookbook. Hands down the favorite part of my "job" lecturing on campus. There's nothing better.  I can't wait to get back on campus in action this fall.

I'm thrilled to announce the health department will be using "Shop, Cook, Eat: Outside of the Box" for the second academic year, 2013-14.

I'm grateful, thankful for all the opportunities that my beloved cookbook has afforded me at Clark and beyond. Thank you Clark College for believing in me to author the cookbook and your continued support. Extra-special thanks to my mentor and friend, Veronica Brock for her belief in me, "For Veronica In Food and In Health."

Clark College -- here's to another Outside of the Box year!

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Read "The Columbian" articles introducing the book:
Cookbook author aims to educate college students
After-school snacks get healthy makeover

A blog post (with photos)from the inaugural book signing at Clark College Bookstore:
Clark College: Outside of the Box 

Blog posts (with photos) recapping my guest lectures at Clark College:
Clark College: Steps OUTSIDE of the Box
Clark College: Steps OUTSIDE of the Box - II 
V day
OUTSIDE of the Box: Clark College Winter '13
Outside of the Box Finals at Clark College
Outside of the Box: Clark College Spring '13
Outside of the Box: Clark College (CTC) Spring '13
An OUTSIDE of the Box Thank You

Google life

I just got off the phone with a lifelong friend, Katina (we’re both entrepreneurs). We were talking about work and life while we both were lying on our beds relishing in the fact that we could start our days a little later and to our own beat. She's tired after a long weekend. I’m just tired. The 9-5 business world would say that we should gear up and start the week with a bang, it's Monday after all.

We hung up the phone: She decided she wasn’t going to fight it, but instead was going back to sleep. I headed to the kitchen, made coffee, checked email, and started this FB status, which turned into a blog post. By us starting our days later does that mean that we aren't hard workers? Heck, no! Quite the contrary, we give 200 percent because when we work we are all there.

During our phone call we talked about companies like Google that embrace life, family, and a non-traditional 9-5 workday. It seems to me the 9-5 work day is antiquated and boxes us in. Some folks biologically just do better in the afternoon, some do better with their dog near by, and some do better if they can break away for a power nap in the middle of the day. My point is we all are wired different. We need more companies to recognize that, to embrace that.

One day soon when I come into a position of hiring folks I will embrace differences and look for those who are looking outside of the traditional 9-5 game. I’ll start with a non-traditional method of hiring: an application with only a few questions – core questions, no standard interview either.  My method will seek out those who are willing to work hard and think, really think. Recognizing that some of us aren’t able to work or think innovatively in a standard 9-5 office environment. I say this as I’m sitting on a stability ball at 11:00 a.m. at my home drinking coffee.

While I realize that certain professions will always be 9-5. I also recognize that there will always be folks that are looking to change the game and move us closer to a work style that embraces our everyday lives and that’s where I want to be.

On my path to a healthy, happy life: Mind, Body, and Spirit. I’m always thinking, learning, and growing. Most of the time I move to my own beat even when others looks down on me for doing so.  I’m sure most people would have thrown in the towel long ago.  But, for me I want more than a standard 9-5. Someday when I get to a place where I can, I will bring others along with me that want the same.

The late Steve Jobs said: “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma – which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of other’s opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition….”

What's for dinner? Chicken Tikka Masala

I've said this before, but it's worthy of repeating...With a well-stocked kitchen you can whip up a meal in a cinch, whole natural ingredients lend for creativity, and with spices on hand you can travel the world. Tonight's meal was evidence of those statements, the result was Indian Cuisine in the comfort of my home -- Outside of the Box!

 

 

Splish Splash: My pool adventures III

This morning I had my third pool session with Christie. We typically start off doing pool exercises for a half hour or so. Then spend another half hour with some basic, very basic swimming techniques.  I had my biggest breakthrough today. I actually felt like I was swimming. I'm feeling less scared and having more fun! Still a long way to go...

Check out this short video: As I make my way down the pool with double noodle action. Gotta have the double noodle.  Splish splash. 

41 Years in the Making

Lydene Robertson Photography

Blessed to have seen another year and it has been a wonderful one.

I vowed to be "Fit By Forty" and haven't quite hit that goal physically. Not from lack of trying or wanting to but it's hard. Very hard. Oh well, let's save all the heavy stuff for another post. It's my 41st birthday and I feel great.

I really like the way 40 feels. I'm closer to God and working on becoming more at peace.   I'm happy. Healthy. I know my self-worth. I'm confident. 

I don't dwell on things or try to hold on to them. I know when to let go and move on. 

I laugh often. I love with all of my heart.

I'm a work in progress but I like where I'm headed.  The best is yet to come.

Rest & Routine

To bed when the sun goes down. Rise when the sun comes up. A very basic concept. A concept our ancestors adhered to likely because they didn't have the luxury of electricity. Nonetheless, our biological clocks are wired that way. In this 24-hour, technology driven society, however, rest is dismissed and the importance of sleep often overlooked. We are constantly on-the-go.

Until recently I was guilty of being always on the go, go, go. "I'll sleep when I die," was my motto. Every night I went to bed with my iPhone clutched in hand, feeling the need to answer every text or email right away. Some nights I'd even sleep with the radio on for background noise. I was known to work on projects into the wee hours of the night and I'd proudly update my Facebook status "Burning the midnight oil."

I'm an information junkie. It's the whole journalist thing -- always seeking information. I read lots of magazines, newspapers, browse lots of websites, and I even read pamphlets and brochures that most others wouldn't. Anyway, I've been reading lately about how important sleep is for a number of reasons, but particularly for those trying to lose weight. Hold up. So all these crazy nights of me staying up late "Burning the midnight oil" could be hindering my weight loss efforts? That changes the game. I had to re-evaluate.

As of late, I make it a point to start shutting it down when the sun sets.  I'll admit getting to bed by 9:30 pm no later than 10 o'clock is a little challenging since it's summer and it stays light outside longer. Here's my new way of thinking: If I am unable to complete a task on any given day, it can wait until the next day. That's why there is a next day. Most of my deadlines I've learned are self-imposed. I'm giving myself permission to move the item or items around on my calendar. I've made it a priority, however, to get at least eight hours of sleep a night and a nap during the day when I can.

Since I started my new routine I'm more alert and focused and I've also noticed I get crabby when something interferes with my bedtime. No more of that ridiculous "I'll sleep when I die," mentality. I take sleep seriously. It's the one chance I get to shut my mind and body completely down. Forget about everything. Refresh. Renew. Just as my body needs exercise and proper nutrition it also needs the proper rest and routine.

I'm on a mission to be healthy. My approach to health and wellness is holistic. 

Mama's Garden

Basil, Green Beans, Red and Purple Tomatoes, and Cucumbers

While hanging out at my mom's house earlier this week she happily took me on a tour of her beautiful garden. She was too cute, sharing her gardening routine with me. I enjoyed our time together and was delighted to bring home a basket full of garden goods.  There's nothing better than garden fresh goods, especially garden fresh tomatoes -- oh my goodness!

So far I've made an Asian Sesame Cucumber Salad (so fresh and light) and a Caprese Salad (an Italian Classic kicked up by the garden fresh basil and tomatoes) . Up next, I'll do something with the green beans.

The blacker the berry the sweeter the juice

Outside of the Box at the Camas Public Library

Last night, I gave an obesity and health talk at the Camas Public Library. Since it was my first time visiting the branch, I browsed around before I made my way upstairs to the room where I would speak. What a quaint, charming library.

The Camas Farmers Market was in full swing outside of the library, inside the library was buzzing with patrons, and I was pleasantly surprised to see posters advertising my event all over the place.

We had a nice crowd of folks that came out: Including a faithful blog and FB follower, Debby and a cycling buddy, Louise. The crowd was engaged and asked lots of thoughtful questions, which made for a great discussion.

Thanks to everyone who came out. An extra-special thanks to the director, David Zavartink and Linda Swenton Assistant Library Director for welcoming me and making the event run smoothly.

You know how I feel about libraries in general, but I really really like this library. I look forward to another program or two in the future.

Olivia's Outside of the Box Cheese Crackers

As you know I'm a huge proponent of real food, Outside of the Box. You also know that I believe it's really important to feed kids real food as soon as they can start eating it.  For the past couple of months, I've had the pleasure of helping Derek, Christie, and Baby Olivia with healthy, simple meals. Baby Olivia is a really good eater: Beets, avocados (her fave), carrots, pretty much all veggies, fruits, and even quinoa. Realizing that she may enjoy a cracker now and again. I decided to show them how to whip up her very own cheese crackers -- no Goldfish or Cheez-Its -- Outside of the Box goodness. She really enjoyed them and so did we.

Recipe forthcoming in the second edition of "Shop, Cook, Eat: Outside of the Box."

Mouthwatering Munchies for Teens

Helping folks step Outside of the prepared food box -- The coolest "job" without a doubt! Doesn't matter what mood I'm in it all seems to be better when I'm presenting and cooking. Last night's "Mouthwatering Munchies for Teens" demo was one of those times. I was a little down, but as soon as I entered the library all was well.

The youth and teens are our future. And, I'm proud and honored to help them make better, informed food decisions. I tell you -- it's the most AWESOME feeling, to look around the room at young enthusiastic faces and see their bulbs shining brighter and brighter as I introduce ingredients and talk cooking techniques. My message is simple: Any and everything that is in a box or package can be made at home using fresh, whole ingredients.

To illustrate my point I showed them simple, healthy snacks they can whip up: Hummus served with Crudités (raw vegetables), Fresh Salsa and Guacamole served with Tortilla Chips (store bought), and Granola (made from scratch) Berry Parfaits. 

Knowledge is power. A big part of my presentations are educating about food. How food relates to our health, where food comes from, seasonal produce, etc. It's a bonus to do presentations at the library because I can tie in reading materials and videos that the guests can borrow from the library.

My cookbooks among the resources as well -- cool!

It's always a good time hangin' with the teens. Thanks to the teens that came out and the adults too. A huge thank you for helping me make the program run smoothly, Linda Landi -- Teen Librarian. An extra-special thanks to the Cascade Park Community Library for their continued support.  Happy Shopping, Cooking, and Eating!

Taste of Summer: Pulled BBQ Chicken Sandwich w/ Cilantro Lime Slaw

I've become obsessed with what I call a Simple Slaw: Hand-chopped green and red cabbage, grated carrots, cilantro, and sliced green onions (with a sprinkle of salt and lime juice). Ooooo...It's fresh, crunchy, and oh so good. I typically serve it with an Asian style to-die-for homemade Teriyaki sauce or a ridiculous made from scratch peanut sauce. But, tonight I put a twist on it for the taste of summer: BBQ.

I'm really into making all my sauces, dressings, dips from scratch it's that Outside of the Box thing ya know?  I tried my hand at homemade BBQ sauce and I scored big time! Sorry no recipes yet. I'm working on them and some will be in the second edition of "Shop, Cook, Eat: Outside of the Box" so be on the lookout. Until then...Stay hungry.

Beauty

I'm flashy by nature. Everything I do is big and bold. I wear big earrings. Bright colors. I'm hardly ever seen without lipstick. No color in particular, but it is a must. I talk rather fast and  loud. It's just who I am. It's my nature.

Last fall during a photo shoot something happened...A rare waking moment I was caught still and quiet.  To my surprise, in that moment the photographer captured the very depth of me.  "Pure Beauty," "Simply Gorgeous," "Intriguing,"  "It's just you. Beautiful," were a few comments from my Facebook friends.

Because I'm a always thinking and blogging in my mind. The photo and comments have stayed with me. I see so many women half naked exposing themselves, wearing lots of make-up, lots of jewelry and spending tons of money on beauty products, and things to enhance their beauty. I'm guilty of some of those things as well. So, this photo of me speaks volumes to me and hopefully to you. Ladies, we don't have to take off our clothes and expose ourselves. Nor do we have to overly dress ourselves up. Beauty is often subtle. Beauty is when we show our vulnerabilities. Beauty lies within our souls and speaks through our eyes.

*Mind you I was wearing make-up in this photo.  And so that no one calls me a hypocrite, I will continue to wear make-up and big earrings. But, the point is it's nice to know that I don't need to.

What's Happening in August

I've always been a fan of the public library system -- promoting books, reading, literacy, and community activities.  It's a great honor to be invited to speak at not one but two local libraries this month. What a way to end the summer!

Up first...I'll be back at the Cascade Park Community Library hangin' out with the Teens showing them how simple it is to whip up simple, healthy snacks. 

8.6.13
Tuesday, August 6:
Teens Arts & Crafts (Ages 12-19)
Mouthwatering Munchies: Cookbook author Chrisetta Mosley will teach you how to make tasty, healthy munchies. You'll get to sample home-made guacamole and salsa, hummus with veggies, and super-fruity granola-berry parfaits. Yum!
Time: 5 - 6 p.m.
Venue: Cascade Park Community Library
Address: 600 NE 136th Ave.
Vancouver, WA 98683
360.256.7782

For the first time...I'll be sharing my story and signing books at the Camas Public Library. 

8.14.13
Wednesday, August 14:

"Shop, Cook, Eat: Outside of the Box"In her book Shop, Cook, Eat: Outside of the Box, local author Chrisetta Mosley tells how she lost 170 pounds by stepping outside of the prepared food box. In addition to sharing her inspiring story, Chrisetta will provide handy shopping tips and share simple, delicious, healthy recipes. Come learn how to reconnect with your food and take control of your health using whole, natural foods. Books will be available for purchase.
Time: 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Venue: Camas Public Library
Address: 625 NE 4th Ave.
Camas, WA 98607
360.834.4692


Other events:
8.11.13
Sunday, August 11:shop.prep.cook Session -- PRIVATE

8.25.13
Sunday, August 25:shop.prep.cook Session -- PRIVATE

8.28.13
Wednesday, August 28:
5 or 50" Women's Sustainable Weight Loss & Healthy Lifestyle Group
No matter if you have "5 or 50" pounds to lose. It's time to start seeing yourself as beautiful, strong, capable and look beyond physical attributes. I'll facilitate the meeting and share my tips for staying motivated. This will be a safe, inspiring environment to share and grow.
Free
Open to everyone
No RSVP required
Time: 6- 7:30 p.m.
Venue: Cascade Park Community Library
Address: 600 NE 136th Ave.
Vancouver, WA 98683
360.256.7782

That's it and that's all. I hope to see you in the mix.